Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Caring Science
In this program, you'll study the relationship between nurses caring for themselves and the quality of care they can provide to their patients. Caring science focuses on creating real, heart-to-heart connections between caregivers and patients. Building on the work of CU Nursing
Dean Emerita Jean Watson, PhD, AHN-C, FAAN, who held the nation’s first
Caring Science Endowed Chair, students investigate the relationships
between caring science theory, knowledge of the humanities, and health
care outcomes.
Overview
Format
Hybrid online
Mostly online with some in-person requirements on the CU Anschutz Campus in Aurora, CO.
Avg. time to complete
2-3 years
8 semesters
Pathway options
Post-Bachelors or Masters
Whether you have a bachelor's in nursing or a master's in nursing, we offer pathways for you to pursue your PhD with us.
Expert faculty dedicated to your success
As the largest PhD program of its kind in the country, many of our faculty are recognized locally and nationally for their excellence in nursing, education, and research. Our educators are passionate about helping students advance their knowledge and careers.
Meet the assistant dean of the program »
Explore our faculty directory »
Hybrid design for flexibility and connection
This program is mostly online and designed to meet you where you are. We offer opportunities to connect with your peers and professors through fireside chats, online discussions, and a 5-day in-person intensive experience as a cohort. Many students work full-time during the program.
External funding options
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in academia, the Nurse Faculty Loan Program can help pay for your PhD. Students also have access to thousands of dollars in grant monies from Jonas Philanthropies, a leading national funder of graduate nursing education.
Career
Example job titles
- Post-doctoral fellow
- Faculty instructor
- Assistant professor
- Manager of clinical research
What you can do
- Design research studies
- Write grant proposals
- Analyze scientific data
- Teach nursing students
Where you can work
- Colleges and universities
- Hospitals or medical laboratories
- Research facilities
- Government agencies
- + more
What's the difference between a DNP and PhD degree?
The main difference between a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is their focus. The DNP program focuses on applying the latest evidence in clinical practice. The PhD program emphasizes scientific research and pairs you with a faculty member who shares your interests. Both degrees offer various career paths in clinical or academic settings and teach strategic leadership skills.
Not sure which is right for you? Contact the assistant dean of the PhD program or the assistant dean of the DNP program to discuss your options.
Admissions
Deadline(s)
| Start term | Application opens | Priority deadlinetooltip | Extended deadlinetooltip |
| Fall 2025 | August 15, 2024 | January 15, 2025 | March 1, 2025 |
Get started
1
Check the requirements
Understand the admissions requirements like how many letters of recommendation you need and what courses should be on your transcript.
2
Start your application
Work on your application and submit it through NursingCAS.
Curriculum
Hands-on research training
You’ll train to become a leader in scientific research allowing you to manage research teams and hold influential positions in academia, private industry, or the public sector.
Advanced classes
In this program, you'll complete 42 credit hours of classroom instruction. You'll need to visit the CU Anschutz Medical Campus three times annually for PhD intensives, and in-person classes. The courses in this program equip you with the skills you need to become a nurse scientist, covering subjects like diverse caring theories and transdisciplinary care.
Skills and knowledge you'll gain
Only have a bachelor's degree and want to get your PhD?
If you have a bachelor's in nursing and take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), you can get your PhD through our Post-Bachelor's to PhD pathway. Coursework is
individualized for each student. Please email con.phd@ucdenver.edu to learn more about this option.
Costs
| Residency status | Estimated total tuition** |
| Colorado residents | $43,920 |
| Eligible western state residents** | $43,920 |
| Nonresidents | $75,780 |
| Additional expenses | Time frame | Estimated costs |
| Matriculation fee | One-time | $140 |
| Other fees | By term | Fall $392, Spring $232, Summer $180 |
| Books and supplies | Total for program | $2,000 |
| CU health insurance (may be waived with proof of comparable personal health insurance) | By term | Fall $1,575, Spring $1,575, Summer $1,050 |
We are connected with one mind and a common energy... I really do believe that. For me, this program inspired a complete change in the way I think, love, and feel.
- Kari Weirath, PhD, PMHNP, RN
CU Nursing Alum
PhD Caring Science program
Become the nurse scientist looked to first 
Get your degree from the top nursing college in Colorado. Start your journey to become a CU nursing researcher today.